Accident Details
The aircraft, stolen from the airport, collided with the ground in a steep angle approximately one mile south of the airport. Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed, with local visibility reported by persons near the accident site as less than one mile.
Pilot Information
The pilot was not instrument rated nor multi-engine rated. About two weeks prior to the accident, the pilot had been denied a medical certificate due to uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes. The pilot was the sole occupant and was killed.
Official Findings
The investigation identified two occurrences: loss of control during the initial climb phase, and an uncontrolled descent resulting in collision with terrain.
Occurrence #1: Loss of Control – In Flight
Phase of operation: takeoff – initial climb
Findings:
- Weather condition: fog
- Weather condition: low ceiling
- VFR flight into IMC – attempted (pilot in command)
- Overconfidence in personal ability (pilot in command)
- Aircraft handling – not maintained (pilot in command)
- Lack of total instrument time (pilot in command)
- Spatial disorientation (pilot in command)
Occurrence #2: In Flight Collision with Terrain/Water
Phase of operation: descent – uncontrolled